Islamabad, Feb 26: After years of delays, the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) has officially announced the schedule for the 14th South Asian Games, set to take place from January 23 to 31, 2026. The event will be hosted in three major cities: Lahore, Faisalabad, and Islamabad. This decision was finalized during the South Asian Olympic Council (SAOC) Executive Committee meeting in Lahore, attended by representatives from all participating nations. While officials from Maldives, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka were physically present, India participated via video conference.
The POA emphasized the collective commitment of South Asian nations to advancing sports in the region. During the meeting, SAOC President Arif Saeed highlighted the significance of these games in strengthening ties and promoting unity through sports. The upcoming event is expected to showcase world-class athletic talent from across South Asia.
Read More:
AUSTRALIA BOLSTERS BLIND WOMEN’S CRICKET IN PAKISTAN
Key Sports Disciplines and Preparations
The 14th South Asian Games will feature 27 sports disciplines, including popular events such as cricket, hockey, football, athletics, and swimming. The full list of approved sports includes:
- Aquatics (Swimming)
- Archery
- Athletics
- Badminton
- Billiards & Snooker
- Boxing
- Fencing
- Golf
- Judo
- Karate
- Shooting
- Squash
- Table Tennis
- Taekwondo
- Tennis
- Triathlon
- Weightlifting
- Wrestling
- Wushu
- Basketball (3×3 & 5×5)
- Cricket
- Football
- Handball & Beach Handball
- Hockey
- Mat Kabaddi
- Rugby
- Volleyball & Beach Volleyball
- Rowing (subject to approval from at least four NOCs)
Technical handbooks outlining competition rules and guidelines will be published by March 31, 2025, following approvals from relevant Asian sports federations.
The Role of Sports in Regional Unity
The meeting also recognized the crucial role of sports in fostering peace and regional cooperation. The achievements of top athletes like Arshad Nadeem (Pakistan) and Neeraj Chopra (India) were highlighted as examples of how South Asian talent can shine on the global stage.
Additionally, a special committee has been formed to review and update the SAOC Constitution, aligning it with the regulations of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). The Federal Secretary of the Sports Ministry, Zahoor Ahmed Chaudhry, stressed Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring a well-organized and successful event.
With preparations underway, all eyes are now on Pakistan to host a memorable and impactful edition of the South Asian Games 2026
